Pennsylvania Dentist May Have Infected Patients
Pennsylvania Dentist May Have Infected Patients
A recent news story alerts us all to the dangers of dental malpractice. In November 2018, patients of Dr. Palmer Cuttoro were notified they are at risk. Patients from the past 11 years may have been exposed to Hepatitis and/or HIV. This dentist may have infected patients. He has since closed his practice and surrendered his license to practice.
How Patients Are Exposed To Risk
Between the dates of January 1, 2007, and September 14, 2018, the dentist did not properly sanitize tools. This equipment was used in the mouths of many patients. Additionally, diseases a patient may have had could be spread to others. This happens through the use of the same unsanitary equipment on multiple people.
Dentist Exposes Patients To Health Scare
When Dr. Cuttoro failed to sanitize his tools, he exposed his patients to risk. Most patients are afraid of the drill, or even the chair. Hepatitis and HIV aren’t normal fears when you go to the dentist. But, in exposing patients to these risks he’s created a very real fear. Former patients may need to seek out mental health care to cope with the stress.
Dental Malpractice Claims
This is a very clear form of malpractice. But, with an injury lawsuit for malpractice actual damage needs to occur. As such, if any patient did actually contract a virus as a result, there would be grounds for a case.
Patients who need mental health counseling for the stress of this situation may also have a case. There is a clear violation of trust, but proving actual damages is difficult.
Dental Malpractice Statute Of Limitations
This type of situation has a statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit. In malpractice cases, it is usually two years from the date of the incident. In this case, the statute would start from the date when patients were notified of the risk.
Pennsylvania Dental Malpractice Lawyers
The experienced dental malpractice lawyers at Kane & Silverman are here to help. Our goal is to help put a stop to this kind of negligence. We understand how dental negligence hurts people. Our team wants to help you get the money you deserve for the care you need. Our lawyers want to stop negligent dentists from hurting other people.
Call our office for a free and confidential consultation. Our experienced lawyers will answer any questions you have. We’ll help you understand your legal options and choose how you want to proceed.
We never charge legal fees unless we recover money for you. You’ve got nothing to lose, call us today! Call or text us at 215-232-1000, Or schedule a free consultation by filling out our online contact form.